How Replacing This One Word in Your Vocabulary Will Decrease Your Holiday Stress

For some reason grumbling because of the things we should be doing during the holidays and cussing while we’re making cookies doesn’t seem to align with “the most wonderful time of the year” feel.

I’m hearing a lot of these two words, “I should…” especially in regards to tasks and activities involving the holiday and New Year.   These words combined with a groan or an exasperated look definitely don’t say “Merry Christmas!”

What if we replaced the word “should” with the word “could” and then follow that up with a bit of introspection as to the task or activity?

Let’s talk about it…

Give it a try!  Write down the top 2-3 things that are causing you stress because you “should” be doing them.  Now, recite the task out loud, but use the word “could” with it.  Do you feel the burden lift?

First of all just replacing the word should with could gives you a sense of freedom.  Try it out.  Look at your to-do list and say it out loud with the new wording.

Ask yourself these questions?
What is the purpose of the task/activity?

What would happen if I didn’t do the said task/activity?

Could I replace the task/activity with something less stressful?

This alone takes a load off.

Let’s remember that our well-being and the relationships with those we love are more important than most of the “shoulds” we place on ourselves.

Have a great weekend!

Much love,

Jill xx

P.S.  Here’s the link to the blog I wrote on the 5 Love Languages.  Before you run out and buy a gift for someone, make sure you understand their love language.